Application for Bonafide/Character Certificate :
In schools, colleges, or offices, we often need certificates for different purposes like applying for a job, filling out a form, or verifying our identity. Two such commonly requested documents are the Bonafide Certificate and the Character Certificate. Though both are formal documents, they are used for different reasons. These certificates are usually requested through a formal application letter, which should follow a proper format.
If you are a student, employee, or someone applying for a visa, internship, or admission, learning how to write this type of letter can save time and avoid confusion.
1. What is a Bonafide Certificate?
A Bonafide Certificate is an official letter or document that confirms that a person is (or was) a genuine member of an institution — like a student in a school or college, or an employee in a company.
In educational institutions, it shows that the student is enrolled in a specific class or course during a particular time period.
This certificate is often needed for:
Applying for government or private scholarships
Taking an educational loan from the bank
Getting a student visa or passport
Attending academic seminars, sports, or competitions
Availing public transport passes or discounts
Submitting with admission or internship forms
2. What is a Character Certificate?
A Character Certificate is a document issued by a school, college, or company that tells about a person’s behavior, discipline, and conduct during their time with the institution.
It shows that the individual has not been involved in any negative or unlawful activity and has maintained good moral conduct.
This certificate is usually required for:
Applying for jobs (government or private sector)
Taking admission in another institution
Appearing in competitive exams or interviews
Police verification or passport processes
Shifting to another city or country (migration)
3. When Should You Apply for These Certificates?
You should apply for a Bonafide Certificate while you are still studying or shortly after leaving the institution. It’s important to mention why you need it — such as for a visa, loan, or event participation.
A Character Certificate is usually asked when you leave a school or college. It is often given along with the Transfer Certificate, but you can also request it later if you need it for any official work.
Structure of the Application Letter
Writing a formal application requires you to follow a proper format. Here’s how you should structure your request for either a Bonafide or Character Certificate:
1. Sender’s Details
Start by writing your full name, class or department, and your roll number or ID. This helps the school or office quickly identify your record.
2. Date
Mention the date you are writing the letter. Always use a clear format like:
16th July 2025
3. Receiver’s Details
Write the details of the authority you are addressing — usually the Principal, Head of Department, or Administrator of the institution.
4. Subject Line
Write a short and clear subject that mentions what the letter is about.
Examples:
Subject: Application for Bonafide Certificate
Subject: Request for Character Certificate
5. Salutation
Use polite and formal greetings like:
Respected Sir/Madam
Dear Sir/Madam
6. Body of the Letter
The main content of your letter should be written in three simple parts:
A. Introduction
Mention who you are — your class, department, or course. Explain that you are writing to request a certificate.
B. Details
Clearly state which certificate you are requesting and the reason for it. If there’s any deadline or urgency, mention it respectfully. Be honest and specific — for example, say if you need it for a bank loan or scholarship form.
C. Conclusion
Politely ask for the certificate to be issued at the earliest. Offer to provide any documents or details needed. Thank the person for their time and support.
7. Complimentary Close
End your letter in a respectful and formal way. Use any of the following:
Yours sincerely
Yours faithfully
Thanking you
After that, mention your full name, class or department, and roll number or ID again.
Tips for Good Application Letter
Keep your tone polite, formal, and respectful
Use simple and easy-to-read sentences
Don’t include unnecessary details or personal stories
Mention the reason for the certificate clearly
Always double-check spelling, grammar, and format
If required, attach copies of ID proof, fee receipts, etc.
Common Uses
Students: For applying in colleges, exams, internships, scholarships, visa processes, or training programs
Employees: For joining another job, verification, or internal transfers
Parents/Guardians: Can apply on behalf of minor students for school documents
Demo Template :
To,
The Principal
[Institution Name]
[City / Location]
Date: [DD/MM/YYYY]
Subject: Request for [Bonafide / Character] Certificate
Respected Sir/Madam,
I am writing this letter to kindly request the issuance of a [Bonafide / Character] Certificate. I am currently enrolled as a student in [mention your class/course/department], and my roll number is [mention your roll number or admission number].
I require the [Bonafide / Character] Certificate for [briefly mention the reason – e.g., applying for a scholarship, attending an interview, visa process, or educational loan]. I would be very grateful if the certificate can be provided at the earliest, as I need to submit it before [mention deadline, if any].
If there are any forms or documents required from my side, I am ready to provide them. I truly appreciate your support and cooperation.
Thanking you,
Yours sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
[Class / Department Name]
[Roll Number / ID Number]
An application for a Bonafide or Character Certificate is a common yet important part of academic and professional life. It must be written carefully with correct formatting, appropriate language, and a respectful tone. These certificates validate one’s identity and conduct and are essential for various official processes like job applications, academic progress, and legal verifications.
Learning how to write such applications not only enhances your formal writing skills but also boosts your confidence when communicating in institutional settings.